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In a significant legal development in Baku, Azerbaijan, a trial has commenced involving a dozen journalists from the independent media outlet Meydan TV. Human rights advocates widely denounce the proceedings, asserting that the charges are politically motivated and aimed at stifling independent journalism.
The case unfolded following a series of arrests on December 6, where several journalists were taken into custody on accusations of illegal currency smuggling. Among those detained were six members of Meydan TV’s team, including Aynur Gambarova, Aytaj Akhmedova, and others, alongside Ulvi Tahirov, the deputy director of the Baku School of Journalism.
Expansion of the investigation
As the investigation progressed, it widened in scope, resulting in further arrests in February. This included Shamshad Agaev, an editor from arqument.az, and two freelance journalists, Nurlan Gahramanli and Fatima Movlamly. The situation escalated in May when Ulviyya Ali, a former correspondent for Voice of America, was apprehended, followed by freelance photojournalist Ahmed Mukhtar in August.
Initially, the charges focused on currency smuggling, suggesting the journalists were part of an organized crime scheme. However, by August, the police in Baku had expanded the accusations to include eight articles from the Azerbaijani Criminal Code. These additions include serious offenses such as illegal entrepreneurship, tax evasion, forgery, and money laundering. If convicted under these statutes, the journalists could face imprisonment for up to 12 years.
Claims of political repression
The accused journalists have consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the charges stem from their dedication to independent journalism. They argue that the government’s actions are a direct response to their professional activities, designed to suppress dissent and limit press freedoms.
Preliminary hearings and the role of advocacy groups
During a preliminary hearing conducted on December 15, many motions put forth by the defense were dismissed by the court. Requests included allowing video coverage of the trial, replacing pretrial detention with house arrest, and dismissing the case on rehabilitative grounds. Furthermore, defense attorneys reported being denied access to critical case materials, which hindered their ability to mount a robust defense.
In light of these troubling developments, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has urged Azerbaijani authorities to release the detained journalists immediately, alongside all other media professionals affected by governmental repression. The CPJ has highlighted that at least 24 journalists remain imprisoned in Azerbaijan due to their work.
The broader context of media repression in Azerbaijan
The plight of Meydan TV, founded in 2013 by human rights advocate Emin Milli, reflects a larger trend of media suppression in Azerbaijan. Based in Berlin, Meydan TV is recognized for its investigative reporting on corruption and human rights violations within the country. Regrettably, the outlet’s website has been blocked in Azerbaijan since May 2017, and past incidents, such as the abduction of journalist Afgan Mukhtarli, illustrate the risks faced by independent media practitioners.
Despite these challenges, the resilience of independent journalism continues to shine through. Reports from various international bodies highlight the ongoing struggles faced by journalists in Azerbaijan, emphasizing the need for global awareness and support for press freedoms. The current trial represents not only a legal battle for those involved but also a critical juncture for the future of independent media in Azerbaijan.